Massena woman starting drum corps

MASSENA - Children looking for something fun and new to do this summer should look no further than the Fourth Coast Watch Massena Pathfinders Drum Corps.

Doris C. Lacks of Massena, a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, is looking to form the group and begin marching in events this summer. While the group is sponsored by the church, Ms. Lacks said membership, or even attendance, at the church is not required.

I want to help get kids off the streets who dont have anything to do except for sit and play video games or watch television, she said. We will not urge you to become members of the church or believe the way we do. We do expect you, however, to do your best in being kind, tactful, responsible, completely honest and do what you can to help others.

The group is designed for students ages 11 through 18, who are not already in the band or participating in sports.

Ms. Lacks said there will be a small membership fee, but uniforms (except for sneakers), drums and even lessons will all be provided.

This is my idea, and Ill be paying all the bills, she said, adding she hopes to have the group up and running in time to march on the Fourth of July.

While Ms. Lacks does have marching band experience, she is also looking for adults to help lead and instruct the band.

I graduated from Iowa and played in the marching band there, so I do have marching experience, she said.

In addition to learning how to play the drums and march, students will be treated to camping trips, outings and have the opportunity to participate in community service events.

It will be a good time for everyone, she said.

She said it is her hope for the group to meet twice a week and then occasionally on Sundays.

The group will include four color guard members, two carrying the groups banner and one each with the American flag and the Pathfinder flag. Musicians will include three snares, two tenor drums, two bass drums and a pair of cymbals. Interested participants or their parents are asked to contact Ms. Lacks at 353-2046 or 212-4350. Ms. Lacks may also be reached by email at wdlacks@gamil.com.

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